The Philadelphia Phillies have made a decisive move this offseason by re-signing their star catcher, J.T. Realmuto, who was a pending free agent. Realmuto inked a three-year deal worth around $45 million, ensuring that 2026 will mark his eighth season with the team.
As spring training kicks off, Realmuto has been candid about his recent performances, acknowledging a dip in success over the past couple of years. "I’m pretty realistic with myself," he shared.
"My last two years, I really haven’t been happy with. I don’t think I played to my ability.
But my body feels great. I still feel I have a lot of good baseball left in me.
I want to prove there’s still a lot of good baseball left. Just because you are a 35-year-old catcher, doesn’t mean you’re done."
“I’m pretty realistic with myself. My last 2 years, I really haven’t been happy with. I don’t think I played to my ability. But my body feels great. I still feel I have a lot of good baseball left in me. I want to prove there’s still a lot of good baseball left. Just because you… pic.twitter.com/qRJ2HFrmsq
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) February 20, 2026
In 2025, Realmuto posted a .257 average with 12 home runs and 52 RBIs. His 12 homers were his fewest since 2016, excluding the shortened 2020 season, and his .700 OPS was the lowest since 2015.
While these aren't the most eye-catching stats going into a contract year, the Phillies clearly see his value. As a veteran presence in the lineup, Realmuto has long been regarded as one of the premier hitting catchers in the league.
Philadelphia is set to begin spring training against the 2025 AL Champions, the Toronto Blue Jays, on Saturday.
Realmuto also weighed in on the performance of pitcher Andrew Painter, offering high praise. "He looks great," Realmuto said.
"I caught his bullpen yesterday. Shoot, I want to say it was 98, 99.
It's just easy. It doesn't look like he's throwing max effort.
It's still coming out that firm… He is kind of like Wheeler. His stuff is so elite, and he's still able to throw the ball on the edges (command)."
As the Phillies gear up for the season, Realmuto's leadership and experience will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their pursuit of success.